Untreated dental abscesses can be life-threatening. Although they can remain undetected for months – or years – symptoms can develop within days, causing immense pain and distress.
When you need emergency treatment, you need it fast.
Keep reading for our tips on choosing an emergency dentist.
How To Choose an Emergency Dentist
Tooth pain can be highly uncomfortable and dental problems can occur at any time – even unexpectedly. Whether it’s a toothache, chipped tooth, or lost filing, you shouldn’t waste time when you have a dental emergency.
Seek immediate dental care if you think you need it.
Look for Dentists With Emergency Services
When looking for emergency treatment, it’s essential that you verify if a practice offers emergency services. Some practices don’t offer them and the last thing you want is to be put on a waiting list if you’re nursing a cracked smile.
Ask about availability and how quickly a dentist can see you if you’re experiencing a dental emergency.
Check the Dentist’s Credentials
Licensed dentists are qualified and vetted by state dental boards.
You should verify that the dentist you see has a valid license to practice dentistry in your state. This gives you the confidence to trust in their expertise and know that you’re receiving safe care.
You can check a dentist’s education, training, and experience online. You can also check with your state’s dental board.
Ask Around for Referrals
Turning to friends, family, and colleagues for referrals is one of the best ways of finding reliable services. They’ll be able to offer you candid, unbiased advice and recommend dentists they’ve had positive experiences with in the past.
Above all, their recommendations will help you make informed decisions. Your loved ones are unlikely to sugarcoat their experiences, meaning you won’t have to read between the lines.
However, it’s still important to remember that everyone’s needs are unique. What worked well for a friend or family member may not be the best fit for you.
Browse Online Reviews
Online reviews are another way of finding good emergency dentists. Read reviews on websites like Yelp, Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Healthgrades for insight into other people’s experiences. This can give you an idea of the level of care you can expect, the availability of appointments, and the friendliness of the staff.
Consider the Dentist’s Experience
Time is of the essence in a dental emergency, and a dentist’s experience is a crucial factor in estimating their ability to provide quality care. It’s your own dental health at stake – and a dentist with several years of experience is more likely to have encountered a wide range of dental emergencies.
Experienced dentists are more likely to have encountered a wide range of dental problems. They’ll be up to date on the latest techniques and better able to handle complex cases.
This can also help ease your anxiety around a visit.
Seek Welcoming and Friendly Staff
Dental health is something many people feel self-conscious about.
A welcoming staff can make all the difference in your experience. They’ll be happy to answer questions and offer quality insight into your dental regimen. They’ll also help put you at ease.
When it comes to the dentist themselves, you want somebody who has a positive attitude toward both dental care and patient care. They’ll take the time to listen to your concerns and treat you without judgment. A warm and friendly demeanor will make your experience more comfortable.
Ask About Insurance
You can’t get around it: When choosing an emergency dentist, it’s vital that you ask about insurance and costs. Check if the dentist accepts your insurance plan and ask whether they offer flexible payment schemes for any out-of-pocket costs you incur.
This will help you avoid nasty shocks and ensure you receive the care you need without suffering any unnecessary financial stress.
Consider the Location
When it comes to choosing an emergency dentist, location is a crucial factor to consider.
It’s essential to find a dentist who is conveniently located near your home or workplace, as this can save you time and make it easier for you to schedule appointments. You don’t want to spend hours driving to a distant dental office. With a nearby dentist, you can get the care you need promptly and without the added stress of a long commute.
Inquire About Treatment for Children
As a parent, it’s crucial to ensure that your children receive the same level of dental care as you do.
Dental emergencies can occur at any age, and children, in particular, may require specialized care. Therefore, it’s essential to choose an emergency dentist who can cater to the unique dental needs of children.
Before choosing an emergency dentist, it’s important to check if they offer pediatric services. Pediatric dentists specialize in providing oral care for infants, children, and teenagers. They are trained to handle the needs of children.
Such needs might include preventive care, early detection of dental issues, and the treatment of dental problems like cavities and tooth decay.
It can work out less expensive for your insurance to use the same dental clinic for your whole family, too.
Key Takeaways
When looking for an emergency dentist, select a dentist who:
- Accepts your insurance plan
- Caters to emergencies
- Is close to home
- Is experienced with a history of positive referrals
- Employs friendly clinic staff
- Can treat your children
Don’t Wait for Treatment
Choosing the right emergency dentist is a pivotal decision that affects your dental health and your well-being. If you’re in pain, don’t wait around for treatment – as it will only worsen your condition.
If you need comprehensive dental care in Greensboro, NC, we can help. Routine exams, teeth whitening, and emergency care are just some of the services we offer. Click here to schedule an appointment with us.